Trump is back: Why relationship between PM Modi and Donald Trump is strong?
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first global leaders to extend congratulations to Donald Trump on his significant win in the United States presidential election. As Trump prepares to assume office as the 47th President of the United States following his victory on Wednesday, the longstanding and evolving relationship between the two leaders has come under renewed focus. This relationship is marked by robust diplomatic engagement, strategic cooperation, and genuine personal warmth.
On Wednesday, PM Modi took to the social media platform X to offer his congratulations to Donald Trump, celebrating his "historic election victory" and expressing eagerness to strengthen their partnership. “Heartiest congratulations, my friend @realDonaldTrump, on your historic election victory,” Modi wrote.
“As you build on the achievements of your earlier tenure, I look forward to renewing our cooperation... Together, let’s work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability, and prosperity,” Modi added.
The diplomatic bond between Modi and Trump has been shaped by several factors, ranging from strategic interests to economic engagements and personal rapport.
Shared strategic interests
Both PM Modi and Donald Trump have consistently prioritised enhancing defence and security ties between India and the United States. A major component of their cooperation has been counter-terrorism, with a particular focus on threats emanating from Pakistan. Their shared vision for a “free and open Indo-Pacific” has also played a crucial role in fortifying their partnership, especially in light of China's growing geopolitical influence. This alignment has led to deeper collaboration in strategic and military matters, including joint military drills and India’s active role in the Quad alliance, which also includes Japan and Australia.
Personal rapport and public engagements
The personal connection between the two leaders has been evident in several high-profile events. The “Howdy, Modi!” rally in Houston in 2019 and the “Namaste Trump!” event in Ahmedabad in 2020 were significant milestones that highlighted their mutual admiration and camaraderie. These gatherings were not just about diplomatic showmanship but reflected genuine personal chemistry, often cited as a driving force behind the enhanced bilateral relationship. The visibility and warmth displayed in these events have underscored the strength of their bond and provided a boost to the ties between the two nations.
Economic and trade engagements
Despite occasional disagreements, particularly over tariffs and trade imbalances, Modi and Trump worked diligently to strengthen economic relations. Trump's “America First” approach sought more favourable terms in trade deals, pushing for balanced economic exchanges. Meanwhile, Modi aimed to protect and promote India’s economic interests while maintaining a constructive dialogue with the United States. Their shared emphasis on boosting trade relations was underpinned by India's increasing economic significance, helping sustain a solid economic partnership. Though tensions over protectionist policies did surface, the leaders managed to navigate these differences with mutual respect for their countries’ priorities.
Collaboration on health initiatives
The Covid-19 pandemic brought the US-India relationship into sharper focus, as the two nations collaborated on healthcare solutions. In the early days of the pandemic, India provided hydroxychloroquine to the United States, responding to an urgent request from Trump. As the health crisis deepened, the United States reciprocated by extending support to India, including medical supplies and vaccines.
Challenges and future prospects
While the Modi-Trump era has witnessed notable successes, there have also been hurdles, especially in trade and immigration policies. Disagreements over tariffs and the H-1B visa programme were points of contention that tested the resilience of their partnership. However, both leaders showed a willingness to engage in dialogue and find common ground, ensuring that their differences did not derail the overall trajectory of US-India relations.
- With inputs from agencies
